What are the latest kitchen trends this year? By the very nature of remodeling and construction, trends don’t change as quickly as fashion or furniture. The products are built to last a generation or more, yet every year, new products come into the marketplace.

Kelly and I were recently invited to speak about design trends at The Cutting Edge 2015 a remodeling education expo in Atlanta sponsored by NARI (the National Association for the Remodeling Industry). We were honored to be there and happy to share our research along with the NKBA’s (The National Kitchen and Bath Association) Trends for 2015.

TOP 10 KITCHEN TRENDS FOR 2015

1, Clean with an overall contemporary feeling. A fusion of styles and multiple colors in one kitchen.

10. Focus on the user experience, from easy maintenance to accessible design. Considering the needs of all users in the space, including pets.

In terms of color schemes, whites and grays are by far the largest kitchen color being specified, along with beige, bone, black and blues. What is showing as a large decline is bronze/terracottas, reds and browns.

Refrigerators being specified are french door refrigerators, built-in cabinet depth refrigerators and freezer-bottom refrigerators. Declining are freezer-top refrigerators and side by side refrigerator/freezers.

Lighting – LEDs far and away lead in kitchen lighting. Incandescent and halogen are distant second and third place choices.

The National Kitchen & Bath Association conducted an online survey of all of its designer members late in 2014. A total of 420 designer members responded.

Respondents were asked to report results for the full calendar year 2014 and also to report on which styles and products were increasing in popularity, decreasing in popularity or showing no change in their markets.

I found the research extremely helpful and not too surprising of what we are seeing here in Atlanta. It’s a big decision to make when investing in a large project such s a kitchen renovation. You want to make smart decisions without overspending and keeping resale in mind, but also want to invest in quality products and enjoy the benefits of a beautiful and functional kitchen.

The “Happy Image of the Day” we having been posting on Facebook for the last few years is still very popular. It gives us a chance to connect with you on what images we find that are beautiful, creative or quotes that we see as “happy”. Here are the top picks by month for 2014. To see those from 2013, click HERE!

Choosing the right pendants for your kitchen island can be a challenge. The island is the central hub of the kitchen and making the right choice is key.

MY TOP FIVE TIPS:

1. Opt for direct lighting for food preparation.

2. Don’t go with the builder grade or pendants from the “big box” stores. Here is your chance to make a big impact.

3. Mount each one so that the bottom of the shade is approximately 66″ above the floor so it is possible to look across the room below the pendants. Make sure to plan for the height of the people that are in the space to avoid light glaring in their eyes.

4. The fixtures should have the same finish/feel of the rest of the kitchen.

5. Choose the best you can afford. Pendant lighting is the “jewelry” of the kitchen!

This is a rendering done by Joan of Art that Kelly designed for Brizo’s new launch of the Artesso faucet. As you can see, these pendants are a focal point of the room and really make a statement!!

As you can see, pendants are beefier and more substantial than they used to be. Don’t be afraid of going too large. This is one of the biggest mistakes I see not only in lighting, but in many aspects of design.

If you need more ideas, the best place to search is Houzz. You will find an array of styles, shapes, finishes and price points. We are proud to be Visual Comfort, Currey and Company and Robert Abbeydealers and would be glad to help with your lighting needs!!

It is said in the south that football is a way of life. Here’s our list of ten products to help you cheer on your team in style this season! From grilling tools to decorations there’s no such thing as too much spirit.

1. Monogrammed Plates

La Plates is the mecca for all things monogrammed. They have a wide range of plate styles, colors, and patterns that you can customize. These melamine plates are essential for a tailgate and can be used over and over again.

2. Festive Serving Tray

Magnolia Lane Collection offers a great variety of painted pottery. Ranging from Christmas to southern sayings to the all important colligate collection. This stadium tray is perfect for serving up your favorite game-day treats to some hungry fans!

3. Embroidered Apron

Every tailgate has a grill-master. The hamburger turning champ of your tailgate deserves his own uniform. This chef’s coat is available in any size and for any team!

4. The Tervis Tumbler

Everyone knows that Tervis Tumblers are the must-have cups for tailgating! They are dishwasher, microwave, and freezer safe and keep your drink at the perfect temperature. You can have them personalized with your favorite team’s mascot and your monogram!

5. Personalized Corn Hole Boards

What would a tailgate be without corn hole?This personalized set comes with 8 bags that are also customizable and a team carrying case! There is a never ending list of teams and they all have several design options available. There is even a score keeping option and a trophy for your tailgate champ!

6. The Ultimate Party Supply Pack

This collegiate tailgating bundle has everything you need to get your party started! Your set can be made from kraft or their signature paper made from recycled products. In your bundle is one set of game day placemats made to look like vintage football tickets, one pack of football shaped coasters, one set of cocktail napkins printed with a sketched football and logo, vintage inspired pennants, and a football-field table runner. The set is currently on sale, just in time for football season!

7. The Go-Plate

Where has this plate been all my life? The “Go Plate” fits perfectly over your drink or cup so that you can have a free hand! This is great for a tailgate or any party! Made from study, reusable, recycled plastic that is even dishwasher safe, how perfect!

8. The Steak Stamp

Even your burgers can show your team-spirit withthis collegiate sports press! Stamp all of your meats, buns, potatoes, and pie crusts to show just who your are rooting for! It’s a great gift for your favorite grill master too!

9. Bunting Banner

Bunting tags have made a huge comeback for all types of celebrations and the tailgate is no exception. This set of 12 pennants is printed onSwoozies‘super thick signature paper and hung using baker’s wire. They can be separated and used as adorable gift tags or strung together to make a spirited banner!

10. The Traditional Cookbook

Everyone knows that the food is the most important part of a tailgate, so grab a copy of Southern Living’s official SEC tailgating cookbook. It has great tips for grilling, ideas for pre-made recipes, and hints on what types of foods travel best! From Scrambled Egg Muffin Sliders to Baby Back Ribs, this book has ideas for all kick-off times and even some delicious desserts. Our favorite feature: a personalized menu for each of the 14 SEC teams!